The emerald beaches of Goa are undoubtedly one of the best in India but to unravel the treasures of nature, culture and cuisine you must take a ride of the countryside. Snuggled in the lush green winding roads are the quaint chapels, cozy homes and comfy mansions displaying the oldest architectural marvels such as stucco mouldings, European Renaissance arches and crowning balcão. With the cycling Poders (home bakers), buzzing fisherfolk clusters, and locally-run businesses dotting the laidback landscape, Asrashaheen.in brings you notes from a place where life moves at its own sweet pace.
“What’s the best thing about Goa?” Ask this to any holidaying couple, solo traveller or family in Goa or those who have vacationed in the coastal state in the past, and their reply won’t surprise you. The answer is bound to include at least one of these, if not all: beaches, nightlife, booze, rave parties and flea markets. North Goa, with its more famous beaches such as Anjuna, Baga, Calangute and Candolim among others, is a popular tourist hotspot especially celebrated for its nocturnal revelry. But come to think of it, many other coastal places in the country are home to picturesque beaches. And nightlife is not uncommon in many other urban centres of India. So what is it that makes Goa stand out as a delightful tourism destination? The mash-up of cosy coastal region and cosmopolitan culture could be one reason. Nevertheless, there’s something more to this once Portuguese colony on the western coast, which is delineated from the Deccan Plateau by the rich biodiversity of Western Ghats.
Cosy Homes with Crowning Porches Snuggled in Greenery
Head to South Goa and you will unravel the treasures of nature, culture, cuisine and architecture that make this place strikingly attractive. In the Southern district of the Konkan region, it’s hard to miss the influences of multicultural encounters and the 450 years of Portuguese rule on Goan architecture, streets, food, people, language and much more.
Quaint Chapels Nestled along the Winding Roads
While most tourists are enthralled by the beauty of its emerald, sun-kissed beaches dotted with international globetrotters, the more keen travellers are drawn to its pristineness. As many would agree, riding a two-wheeler is the best way to explore the charm of this coastal beauty. Nestled in the lush green winding roads are the quaint chapels, homes, and other structures featuring the enchanting architectural marvels such as stucco mouldings, the European Renaissance arches & pillars and the crowning balcão. The spirit of Mario Miranda lights up every other nook and corner with vignettes of Goan life on facades paying a rich inspirational tribute to the legendary cartoonist and painter. The balcão or extended porches at the thresholds of the houses where residents sit and relax is a restful sight in contrast to the hectic lifestyles of metros. Unlike cities where balconies and verandahs are used merely for drying laundry or at the best as a store space owing to lack of space and time crunch, the balcão of a home in Goan villages is a conversation sit-out area where residents interact with passersby, neighbours and friends for a casual chatter.
Vignettes of Goan Life – Spirit of the Legendry Cartoonist Mario Miranda Lights Up Every Nook & Corner
Where Life Moves at its Own Pace
The real Goa is way beyond its “beachwear clad feet in sand and beer in hand” image. From the Poder, the home bakery boy who sells the staple Goan breads pão and poi on his bicycle to the fisher folk who sweat it out in the sea to fish and sell the catch of the day to the traditional Feni makers, picking fallen cashew apples and stomping them underfoot…
Fisherfolk & Home Bakers – the Lifeline of Goa
Baywatch – Keeping the Beaches Clean & Safe
Quintessential Pao/Poi & Other Exotic Delicacies
Whether you are holidaying in North or South of the state, always remember to experience the places, people and food that make Goa what it is!
